About Barber National Institute

Your support of Barber Beast on the Bay will help the Barber National Institute provide greater hope and opportunity for children and adults with autism, intellectual disabilities and behavioral health challenges, and their families.

Since our founding in 1952 by Erie educator Dr. Gertrude A. Barber, we have grown into a multi-faceted organization that serves more than 6,100 individuals annually with education, support and resources needed to become more self-reliant, independent and valued members of their communities.